Dorothy FarrarCoffee
As a non-alcoholic beverage , coffee is one of the most popular beverages. On average, every German drinks almost half a liter of coffee every day. For a long time, the enjoyment of coffee was undifferentiatedly classified as a health hazard based on a large number of unproven indications. Fortunately, the current results of relevant scientific studies tend to prove the opposite.
Here’s what you should know about coffee
At the beginning of the 17th century, large quantities of coffee were brought to Europe by sea from the Arab countries for the first time. The rapidly increasing popularity and demand for the aromatic pleasure product led to a lively trade in coffee beans. These already differ optically by different sizes and shades of brown.
During processing, the coffee beans become darker the longer the roasting process lasts. However, long-lasting roasting also causes quality losses in relation to the coffee bean character. Another criterion is the caffeine content of the coffee beans. This is particularly effective in promoting alertness and the ability to concentrate. The caffeine concentration is also important with regard to possible cardiovascular stress. The selection of the coffee bean type also plays a role.
Around 40 different types of coffee beans are known worldwide. In addition to the variety, the quality of the coffee is influenced by the nature of the growing area, transport and roasting. The market offer is mainly geared towards two specific varieties: Arabica and Robusta.
Arabica is the type of coffee most in demand on the world market, with a share of around 60 percent. It is only grown in the highlands of Central and South America and Africa at an altitude of over 800 meters. The Robusta variety is grown as a fast-growing coffee variety in regions with an altitude of over 600 meters. It is particularly resistant to heat, frost, parasites or diseases and has a higher caffeine content than the Arabica variety.
Because the Arabica variety matures more slowly than the Robusta variety, it can develop significantly more aromatic substances. The content of bitter substances is also comparatively lower as a result. This forms the basis for an excellent taste and aroma. In addition, the caffeine content of the Arabica variety is heart-friendly. Because of these properties, the Arabica variety has a higher quality than the Robusta variety.
importance to health
According to recent scientific findings, drinking coffee in moderation should have a preventive effect on a large number of diseases. The daily enjoyment of coffee is also a welcome break for many working people in everyday stress before they can continue their work with improved concentration.
A private household without a coffee machine is hardly imaginable. Coffee enjoyment in a cozy atmosphere has international cult status. The stressful everyday working life, numerous events or many social contacts can lead to excessive enjoyment of coffee. This can lead to cardiovascular problems.
The consumption of coffee also stimulates the metabolism and thus the burning of fat. The positive stimulating effect of coffee should also serve to improve athletic training performance. According to recent scientific research results, coffee should also have a preventive effect against cancer , diabetes and Parkinson’s disease .
The preventive effect, especially against skin cancer, but also against other cancers, is said to be provided by three to five cups of coffee a day due to the antioxidant and secondary plant substance content. The caffeine in coffee is an organic, nitrogenous compound that can be stimulating to deadly, depending on the dose.
The caffeine takes about 30 minutes to get into the bloodstream after consumption. It increases the ability of the brain to concentrate and store . Caffeine also promotes the concentration of the messenger substance dopamine on the appropriate nerve cells in the brain, which means that coffee drinkers are less likely to develop Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s . The average half-life of caffeine in the blood is about four hours.
Ingredients & nutritional values
The bitter substances are contained in the coffee’s own acids and vary in intensity depending on the type of coffee and the roasting process. Coffee also contains valuable B vitamins such as B 2, B 3, B 5 and B 6. It also contains carbohydrates, protein, lipids, minerals and niacin as well as a variety of aromatic substances. A coffee bean contains 10 to 13 percent water. After roasting, the water content has been reduced to two to three percent. Coffee that has been decaffeinated is also available on the market.
intolerances
Above all, people who are already burdened with cardiovascular diseases should pay attention to the intensity of the caffeine when consuming coffee. Negative effects could otherwise be severe nervousness , problems falling asleep or even heart problems. Preferably, the lower-caffeine Arabica coffee should be chosen.
Caffeine also has a diuretic effect. If you have an acid-sensitive stomach , you will want to choose a coffee bean that is as gentle on the stomach as possible. The bitter substances can cause heartburn and gastrointestinal problems. The Arabica variety contains only a few bitter substances. Additional irritants can also develop during roasting, which can lead to these impairments.
Shopping and kitchen tips
When buying the coffee, in addition to the price and the expiry date, you should also pay attention to the type of coffee. Depending on personal preference and health, it is important to consider whether the coffee to be selected should be particularly caffeinated, aromatic or low in acid.
Powdered or whole bean coffee is available in many supermarkets, retail outlets, delicatessens and markets. A damaged vacuum pack can be easily recognized by the fact that there is no longer any vacuum. Coffee is a natural product that must be stored carefully. Above all, the aroma quality must be protected from light, heat, moisture and oxygen. For this purpose, it should be stored in a light and airtight container at a cool room temperature.
Transfers to other containers should be avoided as much as possible due to the resulting increased contact with oxygen. Food with a strong odor should be kept away from the coffee if possible. Unopened, the coffee can usually be kept for a long time beyond the expiry date.
preparation tips
The preparation of the coveted hot drink is primarily based on personal preferences. There are numerous coffee machines, fully automatic machines or devices for the French press method available in different price categories. Whether filter coffee, espresso or cappuccino: the options are huge.
A comprehensive range of shapes, designs, colors and sizes is available for coffee preparation devices as well as for individual coffee cups, coffee pots or the desired coffee set. Hardly anyone can resist a delicious iced coffee with vanilla ice cream, an inviting head of foam or an espresso with a dash of brandy.
Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.